Capital Backyard Ultra

Capital Backyard Ultra starts in Lorton, Virginia, on March 20, 2027, at 8:00 AM. It is a last-person-standing race on trail: the same loop goes off on the hour, every hour, until a single runner is left, so there is no set distance to enter. Experienced volunteers run the event, with a pavilion for shelter and a kitchen staffed by professional chefs handing out food and smoothies throughout.

Many runners use this format as preparation for bigger goal races, and it rewards discipline over speed. Finish each loop early enough to eat, change and sit for a few minutes, and the hours stay manageable; run them fast and the rest time disappears. The field tends to be experienced and competitive, with a cash prize for the winner, but the atmosphere stays encouraging. Plan for night hours, lighting and a full change of clothes.